Gavin handed Kelly test

Frankie Gavin will take on Michael Kelly for the vacant Irish light-welterweight title on September 18.

Former amateur champion to fight for Irish title

Frankie Gavin will take on Michael Kelly for the vacant Irish light-welterweight title on September 18. The Birmingham youngster will be fighting for his first belt in only his eighth contest since joining the paid ranks 18 months ago. And he will be doing so in front of his home fans at the LG Arena as part of Frank Warren's huge 'Magnificent Seven' promotion. The 24-year-old has stopped six of his seven victims so far and is looking to put on a show against Kelly, who has an 8-1-1 record. "Since turning pro I've been driving Frank mad to get me a title shot and he's told me to be patient and learn my trade and my time will come," he said. "I feel that I'm ready to challenge for a title and this fight against Kelly has really got my juices flowing. "My parents are from Ireland so I will be very proud if I can lift this title. "I've won all but one of my fights by stoppage, and I will be looking to finish off Kelly early. "I'm sure he is going to come and give it a go, and I'd love it if he did because I am at my best when opponents look to be aggressive."